Guide

Building a Home in 2027? Here’s What You Should Be Doing Now.

October 1, 2026 by staceybartron

The Parade of Homes may be over, but if touring this year’s homes left you thinking, “Maybe it’s finally time to build,”now is the perfect time to start planning.

A 2027 move-in might feel like it’s still a ways away, but building a custom home involves much more than the months you see construction happening on site. From finding the right lot and finalizing a floor plan to making design selections and preparing for construction, there are plenty of decisions to make before breaking ground.

The good news? Starting now gives you time to enjoy the process instead of rushing through it.

Start With Your Wish List

After walking through the Parade of Homes, you probably have a much better idea of what you love, and maybe a few things you know you don’t want.

Now is the time to start putting those ideas down on paper. Think about the way you actually live day to day. How many bedrooms do you need? Do you want an open-concept main level? A dedicated home office? A larger mudroom? A walk-in pantry? An entertaining space? More storage?

Don’t worry about having every detail figured out yet. Your initial wish list gives the Brookstone team a starting point for understanding your priorities and creating a home that fits your lifestyle.

Find the Right Lot

Where you build is just as important as what you build.

If you're planning for 2027, now is the time to start exploring available lots, and we currently have lots available in Southdale Farms, giving future homeowners the opportunity to start planning their build in this growing community in Horace.

As you consider the right lot, think about the details that matter most to you: location within the neighborhood, lot size, backyard orientation, proximity to amenities and how the lot will work with the home you envision. Starting early gives you more opportunity to find the right fit for both your plans and your priorities.

Start Talking About Your Budget

One of the most important early conversations is establishing a realistic budget for your new home.

Your budget affects everything from square footage and floor plan to finishes, features and the lot you select. Having that conversation early allows your builder to help you understand where to prioritize your investment and how different decisions may affect the overall project.

You don't need to have every number figured out before reaching out. That's part of why starting the conversation early is so valuable.

Turn Parade Inspiration Into a Plan

If you took photos, saved screenshots or made mental notes while touring Parade homes, don't forget about them! Those details can help you narrow down not only the style you love, but how you want your future home to live and function.

Brookstone offers a variety of thoughtfully designed home plans for families of different sizes and lifestyles. Maybe you loved the idea of the Rosestone's rambler-style layout and easy flow for everyday living and entertaining, or you're drawn to the Brownstone for its convenient one-level living. If your family needs more separation and flexible space, plans like the Redstone or Blackstone offer three-level split designs, while the Whitestone provides a traditional two-story option.

Meet With Your Builder Early

You don't need a finished floor plan, a purchased lot or every design selection picked out before contacting Brookstone.

In fact, getting your builder involved earlier can make the entire process easier.

An initial conversation gives you an opportunity to discuss your timeline, budget, ideas and questions while learning more about what needs to happen between “We want to build” and move-in day.

If your goal is to be living in your new home in 2027, starting those conversations now gives everyone more time to thoughtfully plan the details.

Your 2027 Home Starts Now

Now it's time to decide which of those ideas could become part of your home.

Whether you already know exactly what you want or you're still figuring it out, you don't have to wait until 2027 to start the process.

Thinking about building in 2027? Let's start planning. Contact Brookstone Companies today to talk about your ideas, timeline and next steps toward building a home designed for the way you live.

Summer Entertaining: Why Open-Concept Floor Plans Shine

July 1, 2026 by staceybartron

Summer is the season for gathering. From backyard barbecues and graduation parties to casual evenings spent with friends and family, hosting becomes a lot easier when your home is designed to bring people together.

One of the most popular features in today's homes is the open-concept floor plan—and for good reason. By creating seamless connections between living spaces, open-concept designs make entertaining more comfortable for guests and more enjoyable for hosts.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living

Summer parties rarely stay in one place. Guests naturally move between the kitchen, living room, patio, and backyard throughout the event.

Open-concept floor plans help create a smooth transition between these spaces by eliminating unnecessary walls and barriers. Instead of feeling separated from the action while preparing food or drinks, homeowners can stay connected to guests and conversations throughout the gathering.

Many Brookstone Companies floor plans are designed with this lifestyle in mind. Whether you're hosting a cookout or enjoying a quiet evening on the patio, layouts like the Rosestone and Redstone offer spacious main living areas that encourage connection and easy movement throughout the home.

The Kitchen Becomes the Heart of the Party

It's no secret that guests tend to gather in the kitchen.

Open-concept homes embrace this reality by creating kitchens that flow naturally into dining and living spaces. Large islands, open sightlines, and connected gathering areas make it easy to prepare food while still being part of the conversation.

Homes like the Bluestone and Brownstone showcase how thoughtful layouts can make everyday living—and entertaining—feel effortless. Whether you're serving appetizers, helping kids with snacks, or catching up with friends, everyone remains connected.

Flexible Spaces for Every Gathering

Not every summer gathering looks the same. One weekend may involve a house full of guests, while the next is a relaxed family movie night.

Open-concept floor plans provide the flexibility to accommodate both. The absence of walls creates larger, more adaptable spaces that can easily be arranged for entertaining, relaxing, or everyday activities.

This versatility is one reason open-concept homes continue to be among the most sought-after home designs for modern homeowners. Brookstone Companies offers a variety of floor plans that balance spaciousness, functionality, and comfort, making it easy to find a home that fits your lifestyle.

Designed for Real-Life Summer Hosting

Summer entertaining can be messy, but the right materials help keep your home looking its best. Brookstone Companies homes feature durable, low-maintenance finishes designed to stand up to everyday life and special occasions alike.

Quartz Countertops

Unlike natural stone surfaces that may require additional maintenance, quartz countertops are highly resistant to stains and easy to clean. From spilled red wine and berry desserts to lemonade and barbecue sauces, quartz helps keep your kitchen looking beautiful long after the party ends.

Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

Heavy foot traffic, pets, and the occasional spill are all part of summer entertainment. Luxury vinyl plank flooring offers the appearance of hardwood with added durability and moisture resistance, making it an ideal choice for busy households. Whether guests are coming in from the backyard or kids are running through the house after a day outside, these durable surfaces are built to handle it all.

Find a Home Designed for Gathering

The best summer memories often happen at home, surrounded by the people who matter most. Whether you're hosting backyard barbecues, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying a quiet evening with family, the right floor plan can make every moment feel more connected.

At Brookstone Companies, many of our homes are designed with open-concept living at their core, creating spaces that feel welcoming, functional, and ready for every occasion.

Ready to find a home built for entertaining? Explore Brookstone Companies' available floor plans and model homes to discover the layout that fits your lifestyle. Whether you're looking for spacious gathering areas, durable finishes, or a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living, our team is here to help you find the perfect place to call home.

Browse our available homes online or contact Brookstone Companies today to learn more about our communities, floor plans, and current availability. Your next gathering could start with finding the right home.

Spruce Up Your Home for Spring

May 1, 2026 by staceybartron

A Fresh Start for Your Space, Inside and Out

Spring is more than just a change in weather, it’s a reset.

After a long winter, your home deserves a little attention. Whether that means tackling small maintenance tasks, refreshing your space, or finally making a move you’ve been thinking about for months, this season naturally invites a fresh start. From simple updates to larger improvements, spring is the perfect time to get everything in shape for the months ahead.

And if a new home has been on your mind, there’s even more reason to start now.

Start with the Essentials

A well-maintained home doesn’t just look better, it functions better, too. Taking time to check in on key areas each spring can help prevent costly repairs and keep everything running smoothly as temperatures rise.

Inside the home, it’s a good time to replace air filters, schedule an HVAC tune-up, and make sure your plumbing systems, especially sump pumps, are ready for spring rains. Catching small issues early can make a big difference before they turn into larger problems.

Around the home, inspecting windows and doors for worn seals or weather stripping can improve energy efficiency and comfort. Outside, clearing gutters, checking for roof damage, and ensuring water is properly directed away from the foundation all help protect your home long-term.

And as outdoor living becomes part of everyday life again, giving attention to siding, paint, and deck or patio spaces helps everything feel ready for the season ahead.

When Maintenance Turns Into Something More

Sometimes, those spring checklists lead to a bigger realization.

Maybe your current space doesn’t function the way it used to. Maybe maintenance is becoming more frequent, or updates are starting to add up. Or maybe you’re simply ready for a home that better reflects your lifestyle today.

Spring has a way of bringing clarity, and for many homeowners, that means starting to explore what’s next.

Move Forward This Spring with $15K Your Way

If a move has been on your mind, Brookstone Companies makes it easier to take that next step.

With the $15K Your Way incentive, buyers have the flexibility to apply savings where it matters most, whether that’s lowering monthly payments with an interest rate buydown, covering closing costs, selecting upgrades, or reducing the overall purchase price.

It’s a personalized approach that gives you more control from the very beginning.

Available on current inventory through May 31, 2026, this limited time offer creates a unique opportunity to move into a new home sooner, while making it work for your specific needs.

A Fresh Start, Built for the Way You Live

One of the biggest advantages of a new Brookstone home is the peace of mind that comes with it.

Instead of managing ongoing maintenance or planning for future repairs, everything is already taken care of. Modern layouts, updated finishes, and thoughtfully designed spaces create a home that feels both functional and refined from day one.

It’s not just about moving, it’s about simplifying.

Limited Opportunities in Deer Creek Estates

For those considering building or buying, timing plays an important role.

Deer Creek Estates continues to stand out as one of the area’s most desirable communities, offering a balance of space, convenience, and thoughtfully planned surroundings. With spacious lots, a quiet setting, and nearby amenities, it’s a place designed for both everyday living and long-term value.

But as demand continues to grow, availability is becoming more limited. With a small number of lots and move-in-ready homes remaining, opportunities to be part of this community are narrowing.

Refresh Your Home, Or Find One That Already Feels Like New

Spring is all about new beginnings.

For some, that means taking the time to care for the home they’re in. For others, it means stepping into something new entirely, something that better fits where life is headed.

Either way, this season is the perfect time to act. Explore available homes, tour the community, and take advantage of the $15K Your Way incentive before it ends May 31st.

Because sometimes, the best way to refresh your home, is to start fresh altogether.

Love Where You Live: Simple Updates and Smart Planning for the Season Ahead

February 3, 2026 by staceybartron

February is all about love, and that doesn’t have to stop with Valentine’s Day. It’s also the perfect time to show some appreciation for your home. During the winter months, we spend more time indoors, making comfort, functionality, and thoughtful design more important than ever.

Whether you’re already living in a Brookstone home or beginning to think about building one this spring, February is a great opportunity to refresh your space, plan ahead, and make changes that improve how your home works for you every day.

At Brookstone Companies, we believe a home should be both beautiful and practical, built with care, intention, and long-term livability in mind.

Simple Upgrades with Big Impact

Fixture upgrades

In Brookstone homes, it’s often the small details that make a big difference. Replacing outdated light fixtures, cabinet hardware, or plumbing fixtures can instantly modernize a space while maintaining a clean, timeless look. These updates add character and polish to kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways without requiring structural changes.

Fireplace refreshes

A fireplace is a natural focal point in many Brookstone floor plans. Enhancing the surround, incorporating built-in shelving, or styling the mantel with layered décor can elevate the entire living space, especially during the colder months when comfort and warmth matter most.

Kitchen updates

As the heart of the home, kitchens are designed with both function and gathering in mind. Simple updates like new cabinet hardware, improved lighting, or a refreshed backsplash can enhance the look and feel of the space while keeping the layout and functionality intact.

Improved storage solutions

Thoughtful storage is a key part of everyday livability. Adding shelving, pantry organization, or mudroom storage helps reduce clutter and support daily routines. Smart storage solutions make a home feel calmer, more organized, and intentionally designed.

5 Ways to Love Your Home This Winter

When winter keeps us inside, comfort and organization can make a big difference. Here are a few simple ways to enhance your home this February:

Layer in cozy textures
Soft throw blankets, area rugs, and textured pillows add warmth and comfort to living spaces while creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Refresh your lighting
Warmer bulbs, table lamps, and accent lighting can completely change the mood of a room during long winter evenings.
Declutter and reset
After the holidays, it’s the perfect time to clear out unused items and reset high-traffic areas. Less clutter often leads to less stress.
Organize everyday spaces
Entryways, closets, and laundry rooms work hard year-round. Simple organization updates can make daily routines easier and more efficient.
Add personal touches
Artwork, family photos, and meaningful décor help your house feel like home. These details reflect your personality and make your space uniquely yours.

What to Know Before Building This Spring

If building a new home is on your radar for this year, winter is one of the best times to start planning. Early preparation helps ensure a smoother experience once construction begins.

Thoughtful design, guided by experience

From choosing the right floor plan to selecting finishes, the Brookstone team helps guide you through each design decision with clarity and confidence. Their hands-on approach ensures your home is thoughtfully planned to fit your lifestyle today and well into the future, without feeling rushed.

Clear expectations from the start

Brookstone believes transparency matters. Understanding what’s included in your home and where upgrades make the most sense helps create a smooth building experience with fewer surprises along the way. Their team works closely with you to align design choices with your budget and priorities.

Plan early to stay on schedule

Spring is one of the busiest times to build in the Fargo and West Fargo area. Starting the conversation early with Brookstone helps secure your spot on the build schedule and keeps your project moving forward when the weather breaks.

Choose a Builder Who Guides You Every Step of the Way

Building a home should feel exciting, not overwhelming. That’s why choosing the right builder matters just as much as choosing the right floor plan. At Brookstone Companies, the focus is on guiding homeowners through the entire process with clarity, communication, and care.

From the first design conversation to move-in day, the Brookstone team works closely with you to make sure every detail aligns with your lifestyle, needs, and vision. Instead of feeling rushed or unsure, you’re supported with thoughtful guidance, trusted expertise, and a team that’s invested in the outcome of your home.

With a hands-on, full-service approach, Brookstone helps simplify decisions, answer questions along the way, and create a building experience that feels just as solid as the home itself.

A Home Worth Loving — Built with Brookstone

A home is more than walls and finishes; it’s where everyday moments turn into lasting memories. Choosing the right builder plays a major role in how that story begins.

Brookstone Companies is a premier, locally owned home builder serving the Fargo and West Fargo area, with a mission to build quality homes at an exceptional value. When you choose to build with Brookstone, you’re choosing a team that is hands-on, experienced, and deeply invested in every step of the process.

From the initial planning stages to move-in day, Brookstone works closely with homeowners to ensure the building experience feels clear, supported, and exciting, not overwhelming.

If you’re considering building this spring, now is the perfect time to start the conversation. A Brookstone home isn’t just a place to live, it’s the foundation for the memories still to come.

To learn more or begin planning your future home, visit brookstoneco.com or call (701) 532-0898 to connect with the Brookstone team.

Designing Ahead: Brookstone’s Interior Trends for 2026

January 8, 2026 by staceybartron

Design in 2026 is about more than what’s trending, it’s about creating spaces that feel intentional, enduring, and deeply personal. Brookstone’s latest look book brings this philosophy to life through thoughtfully curated flat lays that reflect where design is headed and how homeowners want to live in the years ahead.

From refined contemporary influences to classic styles reimagined for modern living, these design directions balance beauty with livability. Each flat lay tells a story, one rooted in craftsmanship, material selection, and timeless appeal, while offering inspiration that feels fresh, grounded, and distinctly Brookstone.

Design Trends Shaping 2026 Homes

As homeowners continue to prioritize longevity and thoughtful design, 2026 trends lean into calm palettes, layered textures, and purposeful contrasts. Clean lines are softened by warmth. Minimalism feels more livable. Traditional elements are reintroduced with modern restraint.

Brookstone’s approach to these trends focuses on creating homes that feel curated but never cold, spaces that are functional, welcoming, and designed to stand the test of time. The 2026 look book highlights three key styles that capture this balance: Urban, Modern, and Craftsman.

Urban

The Urban flat lay reflects a refined, city-inspired aesthetic rooted in clean lines and modern simplicity. Cool neutrals, subtle contrast, and sleek finishes create a polished look that feels elevated yet approachable. This style embraces contemporary design without feeling stark, blending smooth textures with thoughtful material choices to add depth and visual interest.

Urban design is ideal for homeowners drawn to a modern sensibility with a sophisticated edge. It prioritizes functionality while maintaining a sense of quiet confidence, perfect for spaces that feel current, intentional, and effortlessly stylish.

Modern

The Modern flat lay showcases a fresh, forward-thinking approach to design that emphasizes balance, light, and simplicity. Crisp finishes and a cohesive color palette set the foundation, while soft tonal shifts and layered materials bring warmth to the space.

Rather than leaning into trends that feel fleeting, Modern design in 2026 focuses on timeless minimalism, spaces that feel open, calm, and thoughtfully composed. This style offers a clean aesthetic that remains inviting, making it a natural choice for homeowners seeking a contemporary look with lasting appeal.

Craftsman

The Craftsman flat lay honors tradition, craftsmanship, and natural character, reimagined for today’s homes. Warm tones, rich textures, and classic materials come together to create a grounded, welcoming feel that never goes out of style.

This design direction blends time-honored elements with modern refinement, celebrating quality materials and thoughtful details. Craftsman continues to resonate for homeowners who value authenticity and longevity, offering a look that feels both familiar and elevated in 2026.

Bringing the Look Book to Life

Each flat lay in Brookstone’s 2026 look book reflects a shared commitment to intentional design and enduring quality. While each style offers a distinct aesthetic, they all prioritize balance, craftsmanship, and livability. core principles that guide every Brookstone home.

These curated looks serve as inspiration, helping homeowners visualize how materials, finishes, and textures come together to create cohesive spaces. Whether drawn to the refined edge of Urban, the calm simplicity of Modern, or the timeless warmth of Craftsman, the 2026 design trends offer something for every lifestyle.

Designed for Today, and the Years Ahead

At Brookstone, design is never about following trends for the sake of it. It’s about creating homes that feel considered, personal, and built to last. The 2026 look book reflects this mindset, offering inspiration rooted in quality and thoughtful design choices.

As homeowners look ahead, these styles provide a foundation for spaces that feel just as beautiful years from now as they do today, homes designed for real life, meaningful moments, and lasting comfort.

Inspired by Brookstone’s 2026 design direction?.

Let’s bring your vision to life. Explore our homes or connect with our team to begin designing a space that feels intentional, timeless, and uniquely yours.